We are developing new bio-based products that can replace fossil-based alternatives
Södra is developing new products in six innovation areas – forestry, wood products, paper, textiles, chemicals and energy – where the entire tree is utilised. Several products can replace fossil-based alternatives in specific applications, including cross-laminated-timber (CLT), OnceMore® pulp, biomethanol and kraft lignin.
We strive to use the entire forest raw material – from bark and fibres (cellulose) to the chemical components of the wood (lignin and hemicellulose). Through resource-efficient use, processing and innovation, forest raw materials can be used wisely and replace fossil-based alternatives. We drive innovation in six areas: forestry, wood products, paper, textiles, chemicals and energy.
Research and development can help develop new bio-based products that can replace fossil-based alternatives. In many cases, they may have a lower climate change impact than the alternatives. Some examples:
- Biomethanol and tall oil – bio-based fuels and chemicals
- OnceMore® – dissolving pulp made from renewable forest raw materials combined with recycled textile waste
- CLT – cross-laminated timber makes it possible to build large-scale and efficiently in wood
- Kraft lignin – a bio-based product from the pulp industry with the potential to reduce the need for fossil-based alternatives in binders, batteries, rubber and composites, among other things. The plant is planned to be completed in 2027 and will then be the first commercial factory of its kind in Sweden and the world's largest producer of kraft lignin.
- Tannin – a vegetable substance from bark that can be used in leather processing as well as for its antioxidant properties.
By making use of the entire tree, we can create the greatest possible value from the forest raw material. Wood is a building material that can replace fossil-based alternatives and also stores carbon in the building throughout its useful life. The rest of the tree is used for other products and energy that further contribute to the climate benefit, both by storing carbon but also by creating substitute for for fossil-based alternatives.
